How to host the perfect match day party

The 2017-18 football season promises to be a cracker. If you’re planning to invite family and friends over to share in the excitement, follow our tips for hosting the ultimate footie fest…

As you prepare for match day, there’s lots to think about - is your living room set up for the best view? Are you getting the most from your TV’s sound? Can you knock up some tasty snacks and drinks? You’ll be on to a winner with these tips to keep your guests happy, even if the same can’t be said for your team…

Getting set up

You’ve invited all your family over for an afternoon in front of the football, but crowding a lot of people round the telly can be tricky. You want everyone to get a good view of the action without having to crane their necks.

Prevent any arguments over Dad nabbing the sweet spot by arranging your living room so that everyone can see.

You could bring some chairs in from the kitchen so that all your guests are sitting comfortably. And, you might even throw some cushions on the floor if you’re stuck for extra seats.

Tune the TV and dim the lights

In anticipation of the start of the new football season in August, you might have invested in a brand new set. If so, you’ll want to make sure your TV is tuned correctly to get the best picture quality.

Get the best sound quality

You might not be a season ticket holder, but that doesn’t mean you can’t recreate the stadium atmosphere at home with an audio-enhancing sound system.

Feel the roar of the crowd from every direction with a multi-room home audio system placed strategically around your living room. Or, go for a high quality sound bar to boost your TV’s audio by creating a surround sound effect.

Add some extra entertainment

No one wants to hear bored voices talking over the TV, so it might be a good idea to set up an area in another room like the kitchen for less enthusiastic guests. Weather permitting, you could even set up a mini goal post outside so that the kids can have a kick about – perhaps some of the grown-up kids will join in too.

After the final whistle has blown, you could even create your own footie tournament with FIFA on PlayStation or Xbox – and challenge your mates to see if they’re as good as their jibes at the opposition during the match.

Match day party tips from a pro

Don’t just take our word for it – Sky Sports News presenter, Kirsty Gallacher, has also shared her tips for hosting the footie at home.

She says: “The secret is to make sure you have lots of drink… and food! Get everyone to switch their phones off so you can enjoy the match.

For a bit of fun, you could even dress up in the kit of the football team you’re supporting. And of course, make sure you’re watching on a big screen – you can’t beat the picture quality and detail you get with a 4K TV.’